Gary Blatnick (MA Sociology)

Director of Del Norte County Health & Human Services Department

I'm from Philadelphia and I'd never experienced anything beyond life in a large city. Then I came to Humboldt State in this little town 3,000 miles from home, and I just felt an immediate connection. It made a real difference in my life.

I never dreamt I would be in the position I'm in today — no way. And I attribute a great deal of my success to my experiences at Humboldt State. Professors would take the time to sit with you and help. Sometimes they would just listen, other times they would give advice and direction. They helped me get connected with internships. And I met my wife, who was also a student at HSU.

I'm on the Foundation board because it gives me an opportunity to give back. Humboldt State is where I developed the professional skills and knowledge to be successful in life, and I want to see HSU continue to thrive.